30 Days to Go! Checklist

After you've spent months or a year planning and scheduling each minute detail of your wedding, you'll wake up one morning and notice that it is the last few weeks before the ceremony and there are issues you have not done. Do not be surprised if your mind goes blank and you simply can't bear in mind what must be done. Stress!

Here's a quick checklist to get you back on track and relieve some of your stress:

* This may be a good time to apply for your marriage license, if you have not already performed it. Different localities have totally different requirements so you and your fiancé must take somewhat advance care with this process. Usually, this is a job dealt with by the groom.

The license is often issued by the County Clerk or the Clerk of the Court. There will likely be a fee. Check in advance for the price and method of payment required. Some states require blood tests and others require tests for German measles, venereal diseases, sickle-cell anemia, tuberculosis, etc.

* Your dress needs a final fitting now to be sure there's time to make any changes needed. While you're at it, be certain that your bridesmaids and groomsmen have their attire ready to go.

* All your vendors must be contacted to verify arrival/delivery dates and times. This consists of your caterer, florist, musicians, photographer, hotels, reception hall, minister or other officiate, transportation and hotel reservations and the bakery creating your wedding cake.

* Take some time to verify your wedding program for accuracy before you print it. Send a future change of address form to the post office. Make a listing of those invited guests who have not responded to your request for an RSVP and ask your mom or sister to contact them. As soon as you know how many out-of-town guests you'll have, create your welcome baskets for them.

* As soon as you obtain presents, write thank you notes. Individuals consider it bad manners to have to wait weeks to get thanked for sending a gift.

Two Weeks to Go:

A couple of weeks before your ceremony, flesh out your seating plan and write your place cards. Affirm any last minute details and inform your caterer what number to expect. Complete your seating chart.

Pick up your gown and hang it where it will not wrinkle or get caught on something. Often walk round your home sporting your wedding shoes to break them in and make them comfortable for your walk down the aisle.

Prepare for a home sitter while you are on your honeymoon, if necessary. You might need someone to water your plants or take care of your pets while you’re gone.

Ensure someone has a list of your honeymoon itinerary and contact data in case of an emergency.

Together with your fiancé, write toasts for the rehearsal dinner and reception. Attend your bachelor or bachelorette parties.

The Day Before:

Your out-of-town visitors will probably be arriving. Relax with them and make them comfortable. Personally give them their welcome baskets or have them already in their rooms.

Take a break and have a manicure, pedicure and possibly a massage.

Confirm your transportation schedule.

Attend the rehearsal that afternoon or evening and hold the rehearsal dinner. Give your wedding party their presents and make sure they know their individual responsibilities, like handing out corsages and boutonnieres, escorting guests down the aisle.

The Big Day:

Give your parents their wedding gifts, in case you did not do it at the rehearsal dinner.

Observe the schedule you have set up for the morning; hair dresser, make up, etc., and you will make it simply fine to the wedding with all the things running fairly smoothly.